Adult ADHD Diagnoses - The First Step to Managing Symptoms
The first step in managing adult ADHD symptoms can be to be diagnosed. These symptoms can be debilitating for relationships and at work. A doctor can examine the person's mood, medical history, and the presence of comorbid conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as anxiety or depression.
An organized interview is a part of an evaluation. Interviews with family members, coworkers and friends may be conducted to get an understanding of the person's past.
Signs and symptoms
Adults suffering from ADHD may experience a variety of these symptoms, but they can affect more aspects of our lives. They may struggle to keep their jobs, manage relationships, and do well in schools, for instance. The signs include difficulty paying attention to their surroundings, fumbling or mumbling answers impulsively, failing to complete work tasks and frequently missing appointments. The condition can also lead to financial challenges since people are more likely to make impulsive mistakes or overspend.
A professional may evaluate adults for ADHD using a variety methods. They can interview parents of a person and ask about their childhood. They can also look over report cards and note teacher comments. Interviewing friends, family and coworkers can be used to evaluate an individual's current functioning. They may also use online rating or self-tests.
The diagnosis of ADHD as an adult usually has a higher threshold than that of children - 5 out of 9 symptoms in the past six months. The symptoms must be present multiple times and not better explained by other mental health conditions such as an anxiety disorder or mood disorder, as well as physical ailments like hearing loss or a vision issue.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult it's normal to experience a range of emotions. It can be a relief to finally have an reason for the difficulties you've had to face for a long time. It can be a bit frustrating to find out that you suffer from a condition of mental health even when you've had success in other areas of your life.
A person who is diagnosed with ADHD is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication or other therapies. In some instances, doctors will recommend adjustments for work or daily activities. Accommodations are adjustments or tools that can be made to a person's surroundings to help them succeed. A step stool may be used by those who are taller than average, or a computer program can help someone who has visual impairments concentrate on their screen. The use of behavioral therapy is also a common treatment for adult ADHD.
Diagnosis
The first step to determining whether you suffer from ADHD is to receive an accurate diagnosis. Consult your primary care physician or a mental health professional to refer you to a specialist who performs ADHD assessments. Your doctor will interview you and review your family, personal and medical background. They will also inquire about the effects of your health issues on your daily life at home, at school and at work.
Your doctor will use the American Psychiatric Society's diagnostic guidelines, that are included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to determine whether you meet the criteria for ADHD. The following are some of the DSM-5 criteria for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types of ADHD:
Inattention: Has trouble staying focused on activities or tasks for long periods of time. Often forgets, loses things or has difficulty finishing schoolwork, chores and/or work tasks. Many times, they make errors at work, school or during leisure activities. Is easily distracted, either by others or everyday activities. Frequently daydreams, seems to be on autopilot or loses track of what they are doing.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: Often restless, fidgets or can't sit still in class or at work. Often interrupts other people or talks off-topic. Most often, he is bored and seeks excitement or a new experience. In most cases, they engage in fights or disputes without weighing the consequences.
Often, people with inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD have coexisting conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, learning disabilities and other mental illnesses. These other conditions can have their own impact on a person and can make it difficult to diagnose.
A physical exam is conducted to rule out medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Some medical conditions, such as seizures and thyroid disorders, can mimic ADHD symptoms.
If your symptoms are serious, you may require additional tests for neuropsychological disorders or psychological disorders. These tests can provide vital information on the ways in which your ADHD affects your behavior and relationships. These tests can also identify any other underlying problems that need to addressed.
Treatment
The same treatments that children with ADHD receive -- medication, behavior strategies life skills training, medication and therapy -- usually work for adults, too. Adults may need to test different medications since the ones they used to take as children might not be right for them at the moment.
A specialist in ADHD should be an individual who suffers from ADHD. This can be a primary physician who treats ADHD regularly or a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. Many insurance companies have online directories of specialists. diagnosed with adhd for ADHD sufferers or a doctor with expertise in mood disorders could recommend the services of a specialist.
After the examination the doctor should then make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. The doctor will want to talk with the patient about their past, particularly how the symptoms affected them during the early years of their life. Therapists may suggest couples' or even family therapy if the individual struggles with their career or relationships.
Most people suffering from ADHD can be treated effectively through medication. They are typically small, fast-acting drugs that help to reduce the chemical imbalance in the brain that causes ADHD. Many doctors prescribe other treatments for similar conditions, such as anxiety or depression.
Behavioral therapy can help improve issues with time management and organization, impulse control and emotional self-regulation. Therapists who specialize in working with individuals suffering from ADHD can provide cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and other customized interventions.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are relieved when they finally get diagnosed. The right treatment plan can alter their lives drastically. They can become more efficient at work, achieve success at school or develop more satisfying and healthier relationships. Many people are pleased to finally receive a diagnosis after years of regrets over mistakes made because their symptoms were not properly diagnosed or treated. It is possible that a person's behavior was influenced by gender identity, race and socioeconomic status.
Support
It's not too late to get an assessment and treatment even if you were not diagnosed with ADHD as a child. Many professionals specialize in ADHD and can determine if you have mild or moderate symptoms. They can also rule other mental disorders, physical conditions and stress as the reason for symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD can trigger complicated emotions, like grief over missed chances or relief that you have a reason for your struggles. Adults with ADHD often feel that they are being criticized by others for actions that aren't their fault, such as the inability to keep their work in order. They may also be facing financial issues, like the late payment deadlines or a debt resulting from impulsive purchases.
It's not unusual for adults with ADHD to exhibit self-destructive behaviors like drug and alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, constant stress and tension and low self-esteem. They may also experience problems with their relationships with family members and friends. They might also be struggling with physical well-being, such as neglecting important health checks and medications or having trouble following the medical guidelines and procedures. They may have trouble managing their finances and sustaining jobs because they are not organized, don't conform to corporate standards and do not stick to an established routine or schedule.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from support groups and therapy that teach coping skills and strategies to live with their condition. Therapists who specialize in ADHD can assist them in managing their symptoms, figure out ways to overcome their weaknesses, and improve their life functioning. They can also work with family members to discuss how the disorder affects their relationships and come up with strategies for helping the person they love.
Peer support and online communities can also be beneficial. Websites like Sheila Henson and Neuroqueer offer individual and group coaching, workshops and webinars on organizing skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction. Other online resources include ADHD friendly workplace accommodations, restaurants, and classes to improve communication.
Some people who suffer from ADHD also find it useful to join support groups for those with ADHD, which can provide ideas and inspiration, and also provide an opportunity to discuss issues and finding solutions. There are also teachers and coaches who can help you create an action plan to improve your performance and reduce the impact of your symptoms.